Aaron McKenna wins IBF middleweight title against Etinosa Oliha

Aaron McKenna captured the vacant IBF middleweight title on Saturday night at Dublin’s 3Arena. He defeated Etinosa Oliha via unanimous decision after twelve rounds of competition.

The judges scored the bout 118-110, 117-111, and 116-112 in favor of McKenna. The 27-year-old used his reach and height to dictate the pace, utilizing jabs to the body and head while maintaining constant movement. This approach prevented the Italian challenger from establishing a consistent rhythm.

Oliha attempted to force a physical contest by closing the distance, but McKenna avoided staying stationary. When the challenger moved forward, McKenna responded with uppercuts, right hands, and various combinations. While Oliha managed to press and land some body shots, he could not overcome McKenna's activity at long and intermediate ranges.

McKenna demonstrated versatility by exchanging punches at close range before retreating to use his jab again. A clash of heads resulted in a cut on McKenna's forehead, but he maintained his composure for the remainder of the fight. He controlled the final championship rounds to ensure the victory.

The IBF middleweight belt became available after Janibek Alimkhanuly was stripped of the title. This win marks the first time an Irish fighter has held a middleweight world championship since Andy Lee.